Engine Stands & Supports

About Engine Stands & Supports

Engine stands and supports are essential workshop equipment designed to safely hold engines and gearboxes during removal, installation, rebuilding, or maintenance work. These robust tools provide a secure platform that allows mechanics and engineers to work at a comfortable height whilst rotating or accessing all sides of an engine block. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range including folding engine stands with capacities from 450kg to 900kg, rotating worm drive stands offering 360-degree access, adjustable engine support beams, and specialised gearbox supports from trusted brands like Sealey and Draper.

Whether undertaking a complete engine rebuild, replacing a clutch, or carrying out cylinder head repairs, quality engine stands are invaluable for professional workshops and serious DIY enthusiasts alike. From compact folding designs perfect for mobile mechanics to heavy-duty multi-cylinder rebuild stands for professional engine reconditioners, the right support equipment makes jobs safer, more manageable, and protects expensive components from damage during handling.

Applications

Engine stands and supports are used across various automotive and mechanical industries:

• Professional Motor Mechanics: Main dealers, independent garages, and MOT centres requiring regular engine removal and installation
• Engine Reconditioners: Specialists who strip, machine, and rebuild engines to factory or enhanced specifications
• Agricultural and Plant Engineers: Technicians maintaining tractors, diggers, and heavy machinery with large diesel engines
• Marine Engineers: Working on inboard boat engines and outboard motor repairs
• Classic Car Restorers: Enthusiasts and professionals undertaking comprehensive vehicle restoration projects
• Mobile Mechanics: Travelling technicians needing portable, folding equipment for on-site engine work
• Motorsport Teams: Racing workshops requiring frequent engine changes and rebuilds between events
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home mechanics tackling major engine repairs or rebuilds in domestic garages

Choosing The Right Engine Stands & Supports

Selecting appropriate engine support equipment requires careful consideration of several factors:

Weight Capacity: Four-cylinder petrol engines typically weigh 100-150kg, V6 units 150-250kg, and V8 or large diesel engines can exceed 300kg. Always choose a stand with capacity well above your requirements for a safety margin.

Rotation Requirements: For detailed engine rebuilds requiring access to sumps, cylinder heads, and rear components, rotating stands with worm drive mechanisms are invaluable. Simple engine removal and storage may only require fixed stands.

Workshop Space: Folding engine stands maximise floor space when not in use, ideal for smaller workshops or mobile mechanics. Fixed stands typically offer greater stability for long-term rebuild projects.

Adjustability: Look for stands with adjustable mounting heads featuring multiple hole positions to accommodate different engine bolt patterns. Support beams should offer wide adjustment ranges to fit various engine bay widths.

Build Quality: Professional-grade stands from MyToolShed.co.uk feature heavy-gauge steel construction, powder-coated finishes for corrosion resistance, and robust castors with locking mechanisms for daily workshop use.

Safety Information

Load Limits: Never exceed the manufacturer's stated load capacity. Ensure engines are properly balanced before releasing crane support, and always work on level, solid flooring.

Secure Mounting: Use correct grade bolts (typically Grade 8.8 or higher) when mounting engines to stands, with fasteners engaging at least 20mm into threaded holes.

PPE Requirements: Wear steel-toe-capped safety boots, safety glasses, and suitable work gloves when handling engines. The HSE recommends appropriate protective equipment for all mechanical work involving heavy components.

Regular Inspection: Before each use, inspect stands for cracks in welds, bent components, or damaged castors. Any equipment showing damage should be taken out of service immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size engine stand do I need for a typical car engine?
For most four-cylinder and V6 passenger car engines, a 450-680kg capacity stand is adequate. However, choose a 680-900kg capacity if working on larger V8 engines, diesel units, or commercial vehicle powerplants.

Do I need a rotating engine stand or will a fixed one do?
For simple engine removal, storage, and reinstallation, a fixed stand is sufficient. However, comprehensive rebuilds requiring access to sumps, rear main seals, or cylinder heads benefit significantly from rotating stands with 360-degree access.

How do engine support beams work?
Engine support beams span across the engine bay, resting on inner wing panels or chassis rails, allowing you to suspend the engine from above using chains or straps. They're essential when removing engine mounts, subframes, or gearboxes whilst keeping the engine in the bay.